Presentations, Conferences & Courses "Biodiversity Project for Kuwait's Coral Reefs" Method of treatment/Technology Eco courses "Biodiversity Project for Kuwait's Coral Reefs" "Biodiversity Project for Kuwait's Coral Reefs" Biodiversity … What is biodiversity or biological diversity? Generally the term refers to: The variety of organisms found on/in the earth (biosphere) with special reference to the number, variety and variability within living organisms. Specifically the term refers to: Earth's living resources in terms of: 1- Genes 2- Species 3- Ecosystems 1- Genetic diversity (organism function) refers to: All possible variations due to gene sequencing in individual organisms or in all Biota exist on earth. 2- Species diversity refers to: Number of species in a habitat or the total number of species on earth. For example, approximately 1.7 species are described to date of 5-100 million total species living. Organisms, which differ greatly from each other, contribute more to biodiversity than those, which are very similar. For example: Rare species contribute more to Biodiversity than common species. Higher taxonomic diversity is more important than Lower species diversity. Ecological importance of a species can contribute more to Biodiversity. 3- Ecosystem and ecosystem-species diversity: Evaluated through measures of the diversity of the component species i.e. how many different species can be present in any particular ecosystem? But more specifically it is the assessment of the Abundance of different types of species. International efforts in protecting biodiversity. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The Wetland Convention (RAMSAR). Migratory Species Convention. The BCD Main objectives: 1. Conservation of biological diversity in all its forms. 2. Access to the germplasm of plants and animals. 3. Utilization of biotic resources to be used on sustainable basis. Obligations: 1. The parties to adhere to sets of agreed policies on issues related to biodiversity such as: protected areas, species protection, access to genetic materials and information and sharing of benefits. 2. Preparation of national biodiversity strategies. Who looks after biodiversity on the global scale? It is the following organizations: IUCN, UNEP, WWF, CBD secretariat, CITES secretariat, Migratory Species secretariat, RAMSAR secretariat. The National Biodiversity Strategy Prepared by experts and representatives from all concerned institutions and agencies in all sectors. Input of International Organizations and NGO'S is essential. Considered as the most important document for implementation of the CBD. The Strategy is a national commitment to conserve biodiversity It is a document, which outlines national goals and objectives in conserving biodiversity. It states current status of biodiversity in the country, identifies constrains and outlines strategic responses. More important, and action plan for implementation of the strategy must be prepared in which programs, budgets and participating institutions and their responsibilities are stated. Biodiversity protection and management in Kuwait Where NAUI Middle East Can Fit? 1- Existing regulations are not adequate new laws and regulations should be issued. 2- It is very important that BCD is incorporated into any Master Plans for Kuwait. 3- The need to establish protected areas. 4- Regulation and control of hunting/fishing and sale of endangered species and import and introduction of foreign and exotic species, 5- Promoting public awareness. How to go about carrying out the project: Selecting a coral reef area (small patch, Shallow, easy access, long diving time). Carry out a trial. - Assess the trial (advantages and disadvantages). Coming with a conclusion and setting recommendation.